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The Lions Player Worth Watching Closest in the Next Preseason Game
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- The Lions Player Worth Watching Closest in the Next Preseason Game
After losing to the Cincinnati Bengals in the preseason opener last week , the Detroit Lions will look to bounce back at home against the Washington Commanders on Saturday.
This weekend's contest against the Commanders will be a pivotal moment for players fighting for a roster spot, as there are only so many opportunities left for them to raise their stock. Detroit will need to cut its roster to 53 players by Aug. 30 at 6 p.m. ET.
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There are a bunch of Lions to watch closely on Saturday, including wide receiver Dominic Lovett, who is still working to secure his spot.
Dominic Lovett's Performance Against Commanders Could Decide His 53-Man Roster Fate
Detroit Lions wide receiver Dominic Lovett (19) practices during training camp at Meijer Performance Center in Allen Park on Monday, August 10, 2026.
Lovett had an up-and-down night against Cincinnati last Thursday. Though Lovett tied for the team lead in catches (three) and receiving yards (28) with running back Jacob Saylors, the Georgia product did have a few drops and wasn't great on special teams, posting a 59.9 Pro Football Focus special teams grade .
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With Lovett competing for one of the final spots in Detroit's receiver room, he must translate his dynamic play from practice to the preseason games. Lovett also needs to make a bigger impact on special teams, a key deciding factor for players on the roster bubble.
Along with Lovett, Cedrick Wilson Jr., Tom Kennedy, Tay Martin, Tarik Black, and others are eyeing a place in the position group with Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Isaac TeSlaa, and Greg Dortch already being roster locks. The Lions haven't had a deeper receiver room in a while, making every in-game opportunity crucial for guys on the bubble.
Lovett must turn in a productive day on Saturday, and a lot of eyes will be on him. If he does, the 2025 seventh-round pick should crack the 53-man roster for the second straight year and possibly receive a more prominent role in 2026.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Aug 17, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
